Manama: The Ministry of Education organised a ceremony honouring students who won and excelled in the local qualifiers of the 10th edition of the Arab Reading Challenge. The event showcased the impressive achievements of young readers across Bahrain and was attended by prominent figures, including Nawal Ibrahim Al Khater, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Education, and Fahad Mohammed Salem Bin Kardous Al Ameri, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the Kingdom of Bahrain.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak Juma, Minister of Education, highlighted the ministry's active participation in the initiative as a testament to the strong cooperation between Bahrain and the UAE. This collaboration is supported by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. The Education Minister praised the initiative's success since its inception, underscoring its role in fostering a culture of reading among children and youth.
Nawal Ibrahim Al Khater emphasized the ministry's efforts in promoting participation, resulting in over 148,000 students from 250 public and private schools engaging in this year's competition. Meanwhile, UAE Ambassador Al Ameri remarked on the initiative's importance in investing in future generations through knowledge and reading. He also commended the strong performance of Bahraini students, reflecting the Kingdom's commitment to the education sector.
Suha Hamada, Director-General of School Affairs, congratulated the winners and acknowledged the ministry's initiatives to encourage reading and cultural development within educational institutions. Dr. Fawzan Al Khalidi noted the revelation of exceptional Bahraini student talents and enthusiasm for learning, including among students with determination, which highlights Bahrain's evolving education system.
During the ceremony, the top ten students at the Kingdom level were announced. Raneem Murshid Al Darwish of Al Izdihar Primary Girls School secured first place, followed by Ahmed Hussain Abdullah of Al Khalil bin Ahmad Intermediate Boys School in second place, and Batool Al Sayed Dhiya Al Sayed Mohammed of Al Ahliya Private School in third.
In the People of Determination category, Batool Al Sayed Redha Sharaf of Saar Secondary Girls School won first place. Saar Secondary Girls School also received the Distinguished School Award, and Aisha Ahmed Al Attawi was named Distinguished Supervisor at the Kingdom level. The ceremony featured a short film highlighting participants' success stories and a theatrical performance by students of Al Iman Schools (Girls Section). The final round of the Arab Reading Challenge will take place in Dubai at a later date.